If you have recently come across the i7-12700KF and wondering what makes it different from the i7-12700K, the answer is — No, both of them are exactly the same, except for a minor difference. The only thing which is missing in the ‘KF’ is the integrated graphics card unlike the ‘K’, which comes with Intel UHD Graphics 770. Apart from that, both of them have the exact same specifications, including cores and threads.
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The Intel Core i7-12700KF, an LGA 1700-based chipset, comes with 12 Cores (8 Performance and 4 Efficient Cores) and 20 Threads. It has a base clock speed of 2.7GHz which can be boosted up to 5GHz and supports a max memory size of 128GB with a max clock speed of 4800MHz. As mentioned above, you will need a dedicated graphics card for display as it doesn’t have any of its own.
In this post, I have rated and reviewed the 5 best motherboards for Intel i7-12700KF that are capable of pushing the performance of the processor beyond its limits.
Best Motherboards for Intel i7-12700KF
The best part of having a ‘KF’ version of a processor is that it costs less than the ‘K’ but yields the exact same performance without losing an inch. And since, users always prefer dedicated graphics cards for gaming or workstation purposes, technically, you are not losing anything even if the ‘KF’ doesn’t have its own graphics.
But to derive that power from the processor, you will also need a solid motherboard. In this post, you will find some of the best boards picked after careful consideration. But before we head straight into the brief discussion, the below table will give you a quick overview of the 5 best motherboards mentioned below.
| Best Motherboards for Intel i7-12700KF | Form Factor | Chipset | Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO | ATX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASUS Prime Z690-P | ATX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 | Mini-ITX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASUS Prime Z690-A | ATX | Z690 | No | |
| ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5 | ATX | Z690 | No |
| Best Motherboards for Intel i7-12700KF | Form Factor | Chipset | Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO | ATX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASUS Prime Z690-P | ATX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 | Mini-ITX | Z690 | Yes | |
| ASUS Prime Z690-A | ATX | Z690 | No | |
| ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5 | ATX | Z690 | No |
1. GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO
For a price of $319 on Amazon (at the time of writing), the GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO is a solid option for gaming enthusiasts who need the best performance out of their i7-12700KF processor. The motherboard has all the latest features to offer and includes, plenty of USB ports, PCIe 5.0 support, and integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO is an ATX-sized motherboard that supports Intel Core 12th generation, 13th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, based on LGA 1700 sockets. It is equipped with four DDR5 DIMM slots that can take up to 192GB of memory with a max memory speed of up to 6200MHz. Regarding display connectivity, the board sports only one DisplayPort, supporting a max resolution of 4K@60Hz.
The expansion slots on this motherboard are one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots. Apart from that, it has four M.2 slots, six SATA III ports, a 2.5GbE LAN, integrated Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.2, six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and eight USB 2.0 ports.
What We Like
With a memory capacity of 192GB, you get the maximum option to increase your RAM memory and improve performance. Latest tech like DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and four M.2 slots for storage expansion are some of the most talked about features of this motherboard. And the most important part is its pricing which sounds reasonable to me.
What We Don’t Like
Even though most of the features offered are of the latest generation, the Wi-Fi version installed, i.e., Wi-Fi 6, is one generation older than what most Z690 motherboards offer, i.e., Wi-Fi 6E. Another disappointment is the absence of an HDMI port.
Summary
Overall, the GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO is the top pick for the i7-12700KF and has some great features to offer. Though it doesn’t have the latest Wi-Fi version, I don’t think that would be much of an issue. If you don’t mind having one generation of older Wi-Fi, this motherboard can be the best bet you can get.
Pros
- 192GB memory capacity
- High-speed memory support
- Four M.2 slots
- PCIe 5.0
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Plenty of USB ports
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- No Wi-Fi 6E (only 6)
- Only one display connectivity option, i.e., DisplayPort
2. ASUS Prime Z690-P
The ASUS Prime Z690-P is yet another motherboard with the latest generation features and a white color painted over the board that looks extremely stunning. If you are a fan of a white-themed setup and are looking to build your PC around that, it can be one of the best options to pair your i7-12700KF with.
The ASUS Prime Z690-P is an ATX-sized motherboard that supports Intel Core 12th generation, 13th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, based on LGA 1700 sockets. It is equipped with four DDR5 DIMM slots that can take up to 128GB of memory with a max memory speed of up to 6000MHz. Regarding display connectivity, the board sports one HDMI 2.1 port and one DisplayPort 1.4, both supporting a max resolution of 4K@60Hz.
The expansion slots on this motherboard are one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 4.0/3.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. Other than that, it has three M.2 slots, four SATA III ports, a 2.5GbE LAN, integrated Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.2, one Thunderbolt header, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 headers (supports additional four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports), two USB 2.0 ports, and two USB 2.0 headers (supports additional four USB 2.0 ports).
What We Like
The ASUS Prime Z690-P has all the essential features to make sure you get the best performance out of the box. You get the latest DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 support, dual display options, integrated Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, and three M.2 slots.
What We Don’t Like
The motherboard lacks the latest generation of Wi-Fi and has Wi-Fi 6 to offer. Though it might not be an issue for everyone, four M.2 slots and more USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports would have been highly appreciated.
Summary
Summing up, the ASUS Prime Z690-P is a great deal for users who are looking for a motherboard packed with all the latest features at a price below $300. And if you don’t mind lesser USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports or M.2 slots, look no further than the ASUS Prime Z690-P.
Pros
- White-themed design
- 128GB memory capacity
- High-speed memory support
- Dual display option
- PCIe 5.0
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- No Wi-Fi 6E (only 6)
- Only three M.2 slots
- Lesser number of USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
3. ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4
If you are building your system around a mini-ITX motherboard, the ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 is the best option you can get right now. Even at this size, the board has a lot to offer and doesn’t compromise anywhere in terms of features and performance.
The ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 is a mini-ITX motherboard that supports Intel Core 12th generation, 13th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, based on LGA 1700 sockets. It is equipped with two DDR5 DIMM slots that can take up to 96GB of memory with a max memory speed of up to 6400+MHz. Regarding display connectivity, the board sports one HDMI 2.1 port, supporting a max resolution of 4K@60Hz, one DisplayPort 1.4, supporting a max resolution of 8K@60Hz, and two Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports, supporting a max resolution of 8K@60Hz.
The expansion slot on this motherboard is one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot. Apart from that, it has two M.2 slots, three SATA III ports, a 2.5GbE LAN, integrated Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.3, four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports additional two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports) and one USB 2.0 header (supports additional two USB 2.0 ports).
What We Like
The motherboard’s small size comes in handy when installed in smaller cases. But still, it doesn’t lose out in performance. It has the latest features like DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, integrated Wi-Fi 6E, Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
What We Don’t Like
Undoubtedly, the small size brings a lot of limitations to the motherboard. But even then, you can still have high expectations from a flagship Z690 motherboard. Similarly, the ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 has only three SATA ports, compared to the standard four. Also, it is equipped with lesser USB ports which can be a disappointment for many.
Summary
That said, the ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 is a solid motherboard with robust power delivery, integrated Thunderbolt 4 ports, and two M.2 slots. Even for a compact size, the board has plenty of impressive features and delivers great performance straight out of the box.
Pros
- Compact size
- 96GB memory capacity
- High-speed memory support
- Two M.2 slots
- PCIe 5.0
- 8K resolution support
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- Only three SATA III ports
- Lesser number of USB ports
4. ASUS Prime Z690-A
The ASUS Prime Z690-A though might look similar to the ASUS Prime Z690-P, but there are some major differences that can either break or make the deal for you. So if there’s something about the ‘P’ version, you can also opt for the ‘A’ version as both are in a similar price range.
The ASUS Prime Z690-A is an ATX-sized motherboard that supports Intel Core 12th generation, 13th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, based on LGA 1700 sockets. It is equipped with four DDR5 DIMM slots that can take up to 128GB of memory with a max memory speed of up to 6000MHz. Regarding display connectivity, the board sports one HDMI 2.1 port, supporting a max resolution of 4K@60Hz, and one DisplayPort 1.4, supporting a max resolution of 8K@60Hz.
The expansion slots on this motherboard are one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 3.0 x4 slot, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Other than that, it has four M.2 slots, four SATA III ports, a 2.5GbE LAN, one Thunderbolt header, five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports additional two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports), and two USB 2.0 headers (supports additional four USB 2.0 ports).
What We Like
The ASUS Prime Z690-A is a great choice for those who prefer 8K resolution and more USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, as its ‘P’ version lacks in these departments. Apart from that, it also offers DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 support, four M.2 slots, and Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports.
What We Don’t Like
The motherboard doesn’t have integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which is a kind of a disappointment for me.
Summary
Depending on your personal preference, you can either choose to pick this motherboard or the ‘P’ version. But again, except for some differences, they are almost the same. The ASUS Prime Z690-A is a great deal for you if you are looking for 8K resolution and more USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports on your motherboards.
Pros
- 128GB memory capacity
- High-speed memory support
- Four M.2 slots
- PCIe 5.0
- 8K resolution support
- Plenty of USB ports
- Intel Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- No Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
5. ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5
If you can’t afford any of the above-mentioned motherboards, I have also got a cheaper alternative for you. The ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5 is a decent option to pair with i7-12700KF and is currently available at a cheap price of $189 on Amazon (at the time of writing).
The ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5 is an ATX-sized motherboard that supports Intel Core 12th generation, 13th generation, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, based on LGA 1700 sockets. It is equipped with four DDR5 DIMM slots that can take up to 192GB of memory with a max memory speed of up to 5800+MHz. Regarding display connectivity, the board sports only one HDMI 2.1 port, supporting a max resolution of 4K@60Hz.
The expansion slots on this motherboard are one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Other notable features include three M.2 slots, four SATA III ports, a 2.5GbE LAN, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports additional four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports), two USB 2.0 ports and one USB 2.0 header (supports additional two USB 2.0 ports).
What We Like
When you are on a low budget, there’s nothing you can’t like. This motherboard has all the basic features to offer so at least you can run your i7-12700KF at its full potential. And if you are getting DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and 192GB memory capacity at this price, this is something to cheer for.
What We Don’t Like
The only thing which might disappoint most of the users is the absence of integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on this motherboard.
Summary
The ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming4/D5 is equipped with basic-level features and is one of the modest and entry-level gaming motherboards in the Z690 series. If your budget can’t get beyond the $200 mark, there’s no better deal than having this motherboard at your disposal.
Pros
- 192GB memory capacity
- High-speed memory support
- PCIe 5.0
- Cheaper price
Cons
- No Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Only three M.2 slots
Conclusion
Best Motherboard for Intel i7-12700KF: GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO
After carefully reviewing, the best-recommended motherboard for Intel i7-12700KF is none other than the GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS PRO. This motherboard is packed with some latest generation features and has plenty of connectivity options to offer. Even though it doesn’t have the latest Wi-Fi, I don’t think that would be a major issue. And all of the above, everything on this board is available at a reasonable price of $319 (at the time of writing).
Frequently Asked Question
1. Does i7-12700KF have graphics?
No, the i7-12700KF doesn’t have integrated graphics and requires a dedicated one for display.
2. What is the speed of i7-12700KF?
The i7-12700KF has a base clock speed of 2.7GHz which can be boosted up to 5GHz.
3. What is the difference between K and KF in Intel?
The only difference between ‘K’ and ‘KF’ in Intel is that the ‘K’ processors are unlocked and have integrated graphics cards whereas the ‘KF’ processors are also unlocked but lack integrated graphics cards.
4. Is i7-12700KF overclockable?
Yes, the i7-12700KF is overclockable but make sure you have a suitable motherboard capable of doing so.
ALSO READ: Best Motherboards For Intel i7-12700K
